The past month the story of Abraham and Isaac has haunted me. I can't seem to shake it. When this happens I sit in meditation to listen, to seek the answer or the message. This is what has been coming up. Feel free to take what you want and leave the rest.
God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. This seem far fetched as Abraham and Sarah were so old. However, eventually, they gave birth to Isaac.
When Isaac was a teenager, Abraham was instructed to take him to the rock and offer him as a sacrafice to God. What a horrific story! Why would God, a loving God, require such a thing? This was my question.
It could be that God was going to save Abraham and Sarah the pain of raising a teenager, right?
As I pondered the story, my youngest daughter was playing soccer and the eldest daughter was busy planning all of her many activities. I began to notice how my God time began to diminish as my daughters frivilous activities began to take over our time. To my astonishment, I found myself at a soccer game on a Sunday morning. I truly had the best intentions of going to church after the game, but it was cold and windy and we were all tired. We went home and took a nap. WE missed church.
I began to see that my children's pleasures were taking place of my sacred time with God. I was slipping into a very slippery slope. God was being demoted. I began to notice how my friends were in debt up to thier eyeballs meeting the whims of their children. I observed more and more family time being dwindled away because of athletics, drama, music, friends, etc.
This is what God was doing, I thought. He was getting Abraham's attention, getting him to refocus. God was his source, his vehicle to being the father of many nations. Isaac was a gift not the source and supply. Abraham had to be willing to give up Isaac, to refocus, to return to God.
In becoming willing, to waking up, or letting go, Abraham did not have to sacrifice his beloved child. A ram was put there in its place.
This story has helped me to reevaluate what is taking my time and my attention away from God, my source, my way-shower. In this awareness, I am able to readjust and become more focused and God-centered.
What things are you holding tight too, believing it is your life line? I encourage to peel your fingers from the strong hold and let go and let God.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
First Commandment
Thou shalt not put false gods before me.
I recently took a trip to a Hindu Temple in Houston and several of my friends thought it odd that "Hindu's had so many gods." In their minds, the Hindus were obviously breaking this first commandment. (Which they could because the commandments are not part of their theology.)
However, when you understand the teachings of Hinduism, you will understand that they believe that there is One God with an infinite number of manifestations. They believe that god is so big and undefinable and it is easier to connect with a human form. Therefore, they create statues in human forms and through consecration, the statues are imbued with the Spirit of God. Once consecrated, these statues are venerated and treated as god. The Hindus in the spirit of gratitude bring offerings of their finest harvest and beautiful flowers to the gods. They visit the gods several times a day keeping God the vocal point of their lives.
This practice is very similar to the Eucharist in the Catholic Church(the consecrated elements of bread and wine) and the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Many people go to daily mass and/or adoration to help them keep God as the primary focus of their lives.
Is this putting false gods before God? I think not.
I think anything we use to stay present in the now moment with God as our focus keeps the first commandment.
Years ago, I felt going to church on Sundays and giving God one hour of my week was a sacrificial event. I had more important things to do with my time like worrying about the future or rehashing the past. That was my focus.
When I chose to live in the future or live in the past, I am putting the false gods of fear and resentment before the ever present loving God. And I must say, my life is a living Hell when I do this.
However, now I attempt to practice daily prayer and meditation and I have come to understand that God is all there is. Therefore, God is a huge presence in my life, not because God has changed, but because my perspective and practice has changed. Currently my life seems to be more balanced and joyful. When I stray from this knowing and this practice, my life falls apart.
The daily discipline of the Hindu people paying homage to their diverse deities allows them to consciously keep God-Centered. Going to daily mass and/or daily prayer and meditation are other ways of staying God-Centered.
What do you do to stay God-Centered?
Think about it.
Love ya, Becky
I recently took a trip to a Hindu Temple in Houston and several of my friends thought it odd that "Hindu's had so many gods." In their minds, the Hindus were obviously breaking this first commandment. (Which they could because the commandments are not part of their theology.)
However, when you understand the teachings of Hinduism, you will understand that they believe that there is One God with an infinite number of manifestations. They believe that god is so big and undefinable and it is easier to connect with a human form. Therefore, they create statues in human forms and through consecration, the statues are imbued with the Spirit of God. Once consecrated, these statues are venerated and treated as god. The Hindus in the spirit of gratitude bring offerings of their finest harvest and beautiful flowers to the gods. They visit the gods several times a day keeping God the vocal point of their lives.
This practice is very similar to the Eucharist in the Catholic Church(the consecrated elements of bread and wine) and the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Many people go to daily mass and/or adoration to help them keep God as the primary focus of their lives.
Is this putting false gods before God? I think not.
I think anything we use to stay present in the now moment with God as our focus keeps the first commandment.
Years ago, I felt going to church on Sundays and giving God one hour of my week was a sacrificial event. I had more important things to do with my time like worrying about the future or rehashing the past. That was my focus.
When I chose to live in the future or live in the past, I am putting the false gods of fear and resentment before the ever present loving God. And I must say, my life is a living Hell when I do this.
However, now I attempt to practice daily prayer and meditation and I have come to understand that God is all there is. Therefore, God is a huge presence in my life, not because God has changed, but because my perspective and practice has changed. Currently my life seems to be more balanced and joyful. When I stray from this knowing and this practice, my life falls apart.
The daily discipline of the Hindu people paying homage to their diverse deities allows them to consciously keep God-Centered. Going to daily mass and/or daily prayer and meditation are other ways of staying God-Centered.
What do you do to stay God-Centered?
Think about it.
Love ya, Becky
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The First Commandment
The following commentaries on the Ten Commandments are not meant to be theological exegesis but are insights gleaned from meditation and contemplation. As with all I write, take what you like and leave the rest. I invite you all to sit in contemplation of these commandments and invite the Spirit of God to reveal their meaning to you.
First Commandment: Thou Shalt Not Have Any Gods Before Me
In order for me to comprehend this commandment, I needed a deep understanding of God. I had been taught and believed that God was the Creator of the Universe, of the seen and unseen. God was redeemer, powerful, loving; yet, at the same time judging, punishing and to be feared. I prayed to this God almost daily and was a faithful church attendee.
However, I did not feel really connected to God but I was sure that I did not put any other Gods before the Only God.
Therefore, I was surprised when my first spiritual director stated, “God is what you focus most of your time and energy on.” At this point in my life, my primary focus was myself. I was consumed with getting what I wanted when I wanted it. I was in control of my destiny, my life. I was the center of my Universe and received all of my own attention. According to my spiritual director’s definition, I was my own God. Wow.
The interesting thing was my life was filled with fear, angst and worry. My god (myself) did not give me confidence, hope or peace of mind.
It was during this time I received a letter from an anonymous source which said, “Becky, There is a God and you are not it.” This was an Ah-HA moment for me.
This was my first encounter with reflecting on the First Commandment which I had obviously already broken.
What do you spend the most time focusing on?
© Becky Benes 3-2011
First Commandment: Thou Shalt Not Have Any Gods Before Me
In order for me to comprehend this commandment, I needed a deep understanding of God. I had been taught and believed that God was the Creator of the Universe, of the seen and unseen. God was redeemer, powerful, loving; yet, at the same time judging, punishing and to be feared. I prayed to this God almost daily and was a faithful church attendee.
However, I did not feel really connected to God but I was sure that I did not put any other Gods before the Only God.
Therefore, I was surprised when my first spiritual director stated, “God is what you focus most of your time and energy on.” At this point in my life, my primary focus was myself. I was consumed with getting what I wanted when I wanted it. I was in control of my destiny, my life. I was the center of my Universe and received all of my own attention. According to my spiritual director’s definition, I was my own God. Wow.
The interesting thing was my life was filled with fear, angst and worry. My god (myself) did not give me confidence, hope or peace of mind.
It was during this time I received a letter from an anonymous source which said, “Becky, There is a God and you are not it.” This was an Ah-HA moment for me.
This was my first encounter with reflecting on the First Commandment which I had obviously already broken.
What do you spend the most time focusing on?
© Becky Benes 3-2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
The Ten Commandments Visited
The Ten Commandments is a list of religious and moral rules that were given by God to Moses and the people of Israel from the mountain of Sinai. They serve as the moral foundation of Judaism and Christianity.
I was taught these commandments as a child and must say never gave them much thought. They were just words on a page and rules to follow. As I got older and more rebellious, they became rules to break, maybe not consciously but subconsciously or socially.
Living and growing up in America, the land of consumerism and materialism, oh no, I mean the home of the free and the brave, and following the crowd seemed more important than the 10 Commandments on the wall. Also the fact that they were not really taught and exemplified in daily practical ways by the powers that be made following the 10 Commandments an after thought.
The past few years, the 10 Commandments have resurfaced and I have done considerable contemplation on them. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing what I have gleaned from them and offer practical ways to incorporate them into your life. I must admit, this is not really a fun journey but it will be insightful. It was for me anyway.
I hope you will join me.
I was taught these commandments as a child and must say never gave them much thought. They were just words on a page and rules to follow. As I got older and more rebellious, they became rules to break, maybe not consciously but subconsciously or socially.
Living and growing up in America, the land of consumerism and materialism, oh no, I mean the home of the free and the brave, and following the crowd seemed more important than the 10 Commandments on the wall. Also the fact that they were not really taught and exemplified in daily practical ways by the powers that be made following the 10 Commandments an after thought.
The past few years, the 10 Commandments have resurfaced and I have done considerable contemplation on them. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing what I have gleaned from them and offer practical ways to incorporate them into your life. I must admit, this is not really a fun journey but it will be insightful. It was for me anyway.
I hope you will join me.
©Becky Benes 3-2011 Onenessoflife
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Thou Shalt not Bear False Wittness Against Thy Neighbor
In Toward a True Kinship of Faiths by the Dalai Lama is a quote from Ashoka, India’s first emperor which states:
“The Beloved of the Gods (the king) does not consider gifts or honor to be as important as the advancement of the essential doctrine of all sects. This progress of the essential doctrine takes many forms, but its basis is the control of one’s speech so as not to extol one’s own sect or disparage another’s on unsuitable occasions, or at least to do so mildly on certain occasions.
One each occasion one should honor another man’s sect, for by doing so one increases the influence of one’s own sect and benefits that of the other man; while by doing otherwise one diminishes the influence of one’s own sect and harms the other man’s. Again whosoever honors his own sect or disparages
that of another man, wholly out of devotion to his own, with a view to showing it in a favorable light, harms his own set even more seriously. Therefore, concord is to be commended, so that men may hear one another’s principles. . . "
(Ashoka and the decline of the Mauryas, appendix V) (34).
This coincides with the Ninth Commandment which states: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. (Exodus 20:16).
How do I practice this commandment? Do I read and repeat propaganda that is not true or found on sound doctrine of Love which for me promotes life and transformation? Do I study and seek information on my own or do I only count on others for my answers? Do I condemn prior to investigation?
This is a tough commandment, it challenges me to seek truth, to love, honor and accept all people everywhere in my thoughts, words and deeds.
To keep it simple, just remember, if you don’t have something nice to say don’t say anything. Is it kind? Is it true? Is it necessary? Does it promote life, love and peace? If the answer is YES to all of the questions, shout what you have to say from the mountain tops.
Love to you all, Becky
©Becky Benes, Oneness of life, 3-2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
The Holding Pattern
Sitting with my dad during his final days I observed:
Nursing homes seem like holding places for bodies and souls awaiting their transitions to their next adventure.
A holding pattern for planes (bodies) on a tarmac just waiting their turn to fly. Some are stationary, just sitting and waiting. Others move up and down the halls, seemingly in constant motion yet going nowhere. They continue to circle until it is their time to take off.
Flight attendants (aides and nurses) hustle about tending to the bodies basic needs-just enough to keep them comfortable. Every once in a while they pause; they call you by your name; they see you, really see you; and they hear you, really hear you. They connect with a smile, a warm embrace, maybe a conversation or even understanding.
You feel alive once again, just for a moment. Then they are gone. You sit just waiting for another encounter, for someone, anyone to notice you, to connect with you before you take flight.
Souls seemingly trapped in bodies that no longer serve them or do they?
Why does the soul hang on-for what purpose does it serve?
Why am I experiencing this with dad?
Am I to learn more deeply about compassion, love, forgiveness?
I connect with dad one last time, our eyes meet, and there is a gentle smile and a hand hug, a kiss on the head.
It is okay dad. It’s your turn; whenever you are ready, take flight.
He takes off leaving his body: old, tired and rigid, and he flies or ‘high tales’ it to California to see Auntie Marg.
He is free, vibrant, strong and unlimited.
He is One with all that Is.
©Becky Benes 3-2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The Power of our Thoughts
"All that we are is the result of what we have thought; it is founded on our thoughts, it is made of our thoughts. Buddha, Dhammapada
Our thoughts create our lives. So what are your thoughts? If you are unsure look at your life.
If it is filled with happiness, joy and blessings, then I guarantee your thoughts are happy, joyful and positive.
If your life is one of drudgery, darkness, fear, and loneliness, then I guarantee your thoughts are negative and full of angst.
Thoughts are habitual and influenced by others. Which means they can be changed. If you are constantly putting negative news, gossiping about the latest tragedy or illness, then that is what you are creating in your life.
I challenge you to review your thoughts and make an effort to increase the input of positive, uplifting and inspiring stories, ideas, and literature into your mind. This will change your world.
Our mind is like a computer, what comes in is what comes out. You are the operator and have complete control of all input. If you don't like what is manifesting outwardly in your life, change your input.
You will be amazed. It works. My mantra is "God has a plan and the plan is good and only good happens in the life of me and my family." Guess what? This is the truth in my life.
Our thoughts create our lives. So what are your thoughts? If you are unsure look at your life.
If it is filled with happiness, joy and blessings, then I guarantee your thoughts are happy, joyful and positive.
If your life is one of drudgery, darkness, fear, and loneliness, then I guarantee your thoughts are negative and full of angst.
Thoughts are habitual and influenced by others. Which means they can be changed. If you are constantly putting negative news, gossiping about the latest tragedy or illness, then that is what you are creating in your life.
I challenge you to review your thoughts and make an effort to increase the input of positive, uplifting and inspiring stories, ideas, and literature into your mind. This will change your world.
Our mind is like a computer, what comes in is what comes out. You are the operator and have complete control of all input. If you don't like what is manifesting outwardly in your life, change your input.
You will be amazed. It works. My mantra is "God has a plan and the plan is good and only good happens in the life of me and my family." Guess what? This is the truth in my life.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Angels Among Us
At 10:30 this evening my family welcomed to our home a team of angels. They will be with us for a week to enhance and bless our lives.
Yes, I know that angels are ever present and are always looking out for us; but this week we will be much more aware of their presence.
I already feel a sense of peace and excitement. If anything, my family will have an active way to express and experience our spirituality.
I'll keep you posted on the happenings in our life.
Yes, I know that angels are ever present and are always looking out for us; but this week we will be much more aware of their presence.
I already feel a sense of peace and excitement. If anything, my family will have an active way to express and experience our spirituality.
I'll keep you posted on the happenings in our life.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Smile
Today at my dad's assisted living facility this was posted on the bill board, "Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened."
This is a powerful message at every level.
The past few months, I have attended too many funerals for my comfort zone. The message at these funerals has been to remember and celebrate the life and not focus so much on the death. I like this. It affirms my beliefs that our life continues into a different realm after we leave this earthly plane. I find this message comforting and freeing.
This message would also help people who have lost relationships with loved ones through divorce, break-ups or moves. Instead of pining away at the loss of the experience, why not smile because of the Love and joy experienced.
Our lives could be different if we celebrated the love and joy found or experienced in the friendship, the experience, the event, and/or the marriage instead of focusing on it's ending.
In life all things are in constant flux. Change equals life. Let's smile because life happens.
This is a powerful message at every level.
The past few months, I have attended too many funerals for my comfort zone. The message at these funerals has been to remember and celebrate the life and not focus so much on the death. I like this. It affirms my beliefs that our life continues into a different realm after we leave this earthly plane. I find this message comforting and freeing.
This message would also help people who have lost relationships with loved ones through divorce, break-ups or moves. Instead of pining away at the loss of the experience, why not smile because of the Love and joy experienced.
Our lives could be different if we celebrated the love and joy found or experienced in the friendship, the experience, the event, and/or the marriage instead of focusing on it's ending.
In life all things are in constant flux. Change equals life. Let's smile because life happens.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Tis the Season to be Jolly, Bah Hum Bug
During this time of year, so many people begin to feel down and depressed including myself.
Why is this?
In observing myself and countless others, I find that most people are talking about their lack of time, energy, money and ideas. They are spending money they do not have buying things they don't want for people they do not know. People with families stress over having families and those without families stress due to the lack of one. The list is endless.
All of this thinking and talking of lack produces a mentality which creates angst, stress, frustration and fear. This is quite sad because the reason for celebrating Christmas is to welcome the Prince of Peace, the Lord of Lords. It is a time for us to open our hearts to the indwelling Spirit of Christ. The Prince of Peace came to shower us with hope, joy, peace and love.
What the world has created is a holiday which stimulates just the opposite.
When I allow life to get me down, I consciously begin focusing on all of my blessings and my life gets better. I do this daily by writing down at least 10 things for which I am grateful. I encourage my children to do this when they go to bed or when they are stressed because of school and other activities. This one exercise can change your life and the lives of many.
A life of gratitude is a joyful life.
Why is this?
In observing myself and countless others, I find that most people are talking about their lack of time, energy, money and ideas. They are spending money they do not have buying things they don't want for people they do not know. People with families stress over having families and those without families stress due to the lack of one. The list is endless.
All of this thinking and talking of lack produces a mentality which creates angst, stress, frustration and fear. This is quite sad because the reason for celebrating Christmas is to welcome the Prince of Peace, the Lord of Lords. It is a time for us to open our hearts to the indwelling Spirit of Christ. The Prince of Peace came to shower us with hope, joy, peace and love.
What the world has created is a holiday which stimulates just the opposite.
When I allow life to get me down, I consciously begin focusing on all of my blessings and my life gets better. I do this daily by writing down at least 10 things for which I am grateful. I encourage my children to do this when they go to bed or when they are stressed because of school and other activities. This one exercise can change your life and the lives of many.
A life of gratitude is a joyful life.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
There is a Plan: Good and Bad
God has a plan and the plan is Good. This has been my personal mantra for over 15 years.
Life is but an illusion of interpretations, everyone seeing life through their own life experiences. Some events to one person may seem devastating while to another seems a blessing.
Early in my life, I seemed to see most things as bad. I followed Murphy's Law, if anything can go wrong, it will go wrong. As I began to awaken to the Truth that God created all things including me and called them Good, I questioned my belief.
If God created all as Good, why would God institute a law which ensured bad things to happen to creation? This question allowed me to open myself to change. I began using my mantra, God has a plan and the plan is Good. To my amazement, my life began to take a turn for the better. People who know me will tell you that only good things happen to me and my family.
Murphy's Law no longer has dominion in my life.
What changed? What I said to myself and what I expected out of life. We have the power within ourselves to create our own reality.
What reality are you creating?
Life is but an illusion of interpretations, everyone seeing life through their own life experiences. Some events to one person may seem devastating while to another seems a blessing.
Early in my life, I seemed to see most things as bad. I followed Murphy's Law, if anything can go wrong, it will go wrong. As I began to awaken to the Truth that God created all things including me and called them Good, I questioned my belief.
If God created all as Good, why would God institute a law which ensured bad things to happen to creation? This question allowed me to open myself to change. I began using my mantra, God has a plan and the plan is Good. To my amazement, my life began to take a turn for the better. People who know me will tell you that only good things happen to me and my family.
Murphy's Law no longer has dominion in my life.
What changed? What I said to myself and what I expected out of life. We have the power within ourselves to create our own reality.
What reality are you creating?
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Living Debt Free
Forgiveness is the key to experiencing the awareness of God in all Its Majesty.
In the Lord's Prayer, we are taught to forgive us our trespasses or debts as we forgive those who trespass against us or our debtors. The word as is the operative word here. For a little word, it has a lot of punch.
I am forgiven in the same measure as I forgive. So how am I doing?
Usually I feel I do very well. However, recently I received a deeper insight about this entire passage in its relation to prosperity. Prosperity is my conscious awareness of the abundance of God surrounding me; freely given and freely available in my life and the life of others. My prosperity is enhanced or is blocked in accord with my forgiveness practices. O.K. so I have a pretty clean slate, why is my business or my bank account not where I want it to be? Have you ever asked that question?
The answer came that I must be debt free.
Ah, ha, I said, "I am debt free, I owe no one, except for my house. And no one owes me anything, I have forgiven all financial debts. So show me the money!"
Really, are you debt free in your emotions and in your mind? Do you have thoughts that people might owe you something, like their time, talents or treasures? Do I, God owe you anything?
Well this question opened Pandora's box. There were a plethora of people in my mind whom I felt were indebted to me because after all, look what I had done for them. This included friends, family, children, acquaintances, the list was endless. Can you believe it, I am a martyr! Oh the Humanity. Even though I helped others from a seemly giving heart, I had an underlying expectation that they some how owed me.
Wow, I spent two hours pouring over my debtors and doing the work of forgiveness. Becoming aware of the areas in which I need to forgive is the first step in the forgiveness process. Next comes praying for and letting go of the expectations of others (and myself for that matter) that I hold in my heart. Then comes the freedom and the removal of blocks in my life.
This may take awhile, but the process has begun. Now that I am aware, I am excited to see how my life, my business, and my bank account unfolds to express the love of God as I do the work of forgiveness.
©oneness of life productions 11/2010
In the Lord's Prayer, we are taught to forgive us our trespasses or debts as we forgive those who trespass against us or our debtors. The word as is the operative word here. For a little word, it has a lot of punch.
I am forgiven in the same measure as I forgive. So how am I doing?
Usually I feel I do very well. However, recently I received a deeper insight about this entire passage in its relation to prosperity. Prosperity is my conscious awareness of the abundance of God surrounding me; freely given and freely available in my life and the life of others. My prosperity is enhanced or is blocked in accord with my forgiveness practices. O.K. so I have a pretty clean slate, why is my business or my bank account not where I want it to be? Have you ever asked that question?
The answer came that I must be debt free.
Ah, ha, I said, "I am debt free, I owe no one, except for my house. And no one owes me anything, I have forgiven all financial debts. So show me the money!"
Really, are you debt free in your emotions and in your mind? Do you have thoughts that people might owe you something, like their time, talents or treasures? Do I, God owe you anything?
Well this question opened Pandora's box. There were a plethora of people in my mind whom I felt were indebted to me because after all, look what I had done for them. This included friends, family, children, acquaintances, the list was endless. Can you believe it, I am a martyr! Oh the Humanity. Even though I helped others from a seemly giving heart, I had an underlying expectation that they some how owed me.
Wow, I spent two hours pouring over my debtors and doing the work of forgiveness. Becoming aware of the areas in which I need to forgive is the first step in the forgiveness process. Next comes praying for and letting go of the expectations of others (and myself for that matter) that I hold in my heart. Then comes the freedom and the removal of blocks in my life.
This may take awhile, but the process has begun. Now that I am aware, I am excited to see how my life, my business, and my bank account unfolds to express the love of God as I do the work of forgiveness.
©oneness of life productions 11/2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Our Thinking makes it so
I remember being in the place of the limited thinking of black or white, instead of unlimited possibilities of black and white. It was a life of fear and struggle, and persuasion and promotion. It was my way or the highway. Then one day someone sent me a note that read, Becky, Take the day off, I have everything under control. signed GOD.
And then I realized that I had been playing God and trying to direct people, places and things into my image of what should be. I had forgotten that God had created all people in the image and likeness of Godself and deemed it all GOOD! Who was I to try to change it.
I began to expand my studies and spiritual practices. The more I read and the more I experience, the more trust I find in a loving Creator.
Instead of just reading and proclaiming the scriptures, I challenged them and practiced what Jesus and other spiritual masters taught and what they did. I moved from my head to my heart (the toughest and longest journey in my life).
The result was an unbelievable knowing of my purpose and my passion for life, for Oneness with my Creator and all of creation. It pulls me forward into my day, it inspires me to do greater things than I ever imagined. It brings me great joy and happiness. It relieves my fear of tomorrow.
The only person who will ever know your truth and your purpose in life is you. You are the only one who can tap into your still small voice. Others may lay out a plan or a path, but you are the only one who can walk you journey.
The indwelling Spirit of God awaits your audience and will guide you along the way.
©oneness of life productions 11/2010
And then I realized that I had been playing God and trying to direct people, places and things into my image of what should be. I had forgotten that God had created all people in the image and likeness of Godself and deemed it all GOOD! Who was I to try to change it.
I began to expand my studies and spiritual practices. The more I read and the more I experience, the more trust I find in a loving Creator.
Instead of just reading and proclaiming the scriptures, I challenged them and practiced what Jesus and other spiritual masters taught and what they did. I moved from my head to my heart (the toughest and longest journey in my life).
The result was an unbelievable knowing of my purpose and my passion for life, for Oneness with my Creator and all of creation. It pulls me forward into my day, it inspires me to do greater things than I ever imagined. It brings me great joy and happiness. It relieves my fear of tomorrow.
The only person who will ever know your truth and your purpose in life is you. You are the only one who can tap into your still small voice. Others may lay out a plan or a path, but you are the only one who can walk you journey.
The indwelling Spirit of God awaits your audience and will guide you along the way.
©oneness of life productions 11/2010
Friday, October 22, 2010
Faith vs. Belief
Faith is developed over time as you experience life. It is something you trust in. A belief is taught. It is allowing someone else to think for you.
Becky, are you a Christian?
I am often asked, "Becky are you a Christian? Do you believe that Jesus died for your sins and is the only way to salvation?"
My answer is, I was taught those beliefs as a child. But my conversion experience tells me that there are many paths to God, as mine was not in a church. It was in a secular setting among a group of people; professionals, priests, pilots, doctors, mothers, dads, drunks, prostitutes, ex-convicts, adulterers, abusers, heterosexuals and homosexuals: all sinners and outcasts from the churches of our youth. All of us, lost souls, seeking meaning for life and a reason to live. We all sat around clinging to each other as one would cling to a life raft on a sinking ship hoping and praying for some sort of saving grace.
Many prayed to a God that they did not believe in, some prayed to a door knob, others prayed to a borrowed God, others prayed to the varying Gods of their childhood. I prayed to a borrowed God, the Spirit of love and creativity. These many expressions of God pulled most of us through and led us into a life of light, love and happiness.
As I walked along my spiritual path, I remembered the stories of Jesus eating with the tax collectors, talking to the prostitutes, protecting the adulterers, drinking wine at the weddings, etc. I realized that he hung out with people like me. This opened the door for me to return to the teachings of my childhood and gave me the courage to go before a priest in reconciliation and confess my 'sins'; all areas of my life where I had missed the mark, I had stepped away from my Creator. I revealed all of my secrets that kept me in darkness.
When I had exhausted my life history, wailing uncontrollably, the priest said, "Becky, God loves you unconditionally just as you are. Jesus last words on the cross were, God forgive them they know not what they do. In God, your life is a clean slate. Now you must forgive yourself. And in the words of Jesus, he said, Go and sin no more", which meant keep a tight relationship with God and do the best you can. This experience set me free.
It was sharing our stories, loving and accepting each other warts and all that I began to awaken to the indwelling Spirit of God. As I grew to love these people and they grew to love me unconditionally expecting nothing in return, I began to love myself. In loving myself, I was able to open myself to the love, forgiveness and grace of God.
Scriptures for the first time in my life had meaning. I was once blind but now I could see, I was deaf but now I could hear. My life was born anew. Where once I could not see God anywhere; now, there was no place God was not. In every person, every faith tradition, every mountain top, every experience whether good or bad, God is there.
So in answer to the question, "Am I a Christian?" I can only say, Jesus is my way-shower, we walk hand in hand along this spiritual journey called life. He is my guide and my friend. We are, as you are, One with each other and with our Creator; the Creator of all that Is.
I am a Christian of my kind, just as you may be a Christian, Muslim, Jew, Hindu, Baha'i, etc. of your kind. For me, It Is All that IS: GOD.
©oneness of life productions 11/2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
First Things First
First Things First! I have struggled with this saying for years and have tired every which way to put things in order to no avail. I finally figured it out.
If I seek the wisdom from God in all of my affairs first, my life usually turns out O.K. God must be what comes first. I think Jesus said this, "Seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God". When I seek God first God seems to prepare my path.
We have free will and can go anywhere and in any direction we choose. God is always wanting to help us, just as a supportive friend. But if we never tell God where we want to go or what we want to do, God cannot help guide us. Just as if we ask a friend to help us out, we must first tell them where or what we are wanting.
How do I seek the wisdom of God first?
I do this in the mornings as I plan out my day. I present my plan or any intention or problem I may have to God before I enter into meditation and contemplation. I then sit quietly and listen for the still small voice. The small voice comes from within when I am peaceful and in tune. Usually as I journal all of my thoughts, somewhere in the mix is the answer or direction which I am seeking.
However, if I am scattered and unclear of what I want or what direction I need, I usually will receive no direction. If my heart wants one thing and my head wants another, I am out of alignment with myself. In order to receive clear guidance from God, it is important to be very specific to what we want. If we are wishy-washy, our response will be wishy-washy.
When I seek God first and ask for guidance daily, God paves the way for my daily living and things flow smoothly.
"I set the Lord ever before me; with God at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. . .You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever." Psalms 16:8,11
©oneness of life productions 9/2010
If I seek the wisdom from God in all of my affairs first, my life usually turns out O.K. God must be what comes first. I think Jesus said this, "Seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God". When I seek God first God seems to prepare my path.
We have free will and can go anywhere and in any direction we choose. God is always wanting to help us, just as a supportive friend. But if we never tell God where we want to go or what we want to do, God cannot help guide us. Just as if we ask a friend to help us out, we must first tell them where or what we are wanting.
How do I seek the wisdom of God first?
I do this in the mornings as I plan out my day. I present my plan or any intention or problem I may have to God before I enter into meditation and contemplation. I then sit quietly and listen for the still small voice. The small voice comes from within when I am peaceful and in tune. Usually as I journal all of my thoughts, somewhere in the mix is the answer or direction which I am seeking.
However, if I am scattered and unclear of what I want or what direction I need, I usually will receive no direction. If my heart wants one thing and my head wants another, I am out of alignment with myself. In order to receive clear guidance from God, it is important to be very specific to what we want. If we are wishy-washy, our response will be wishy-washy.
When I seek God first and ask for guidance daily, God paves the way for my daily living and things flow smoothly.
"I set the Lord ever before me; with God at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. . .You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever." Psalms 16:8,11
©oneness of life productions 9/2010
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Green Card
I just watched an old movie "Green card" about an American woman who wanted a green house in New York and a Frenchman who wanted a green card. They married,so they could both get what they wanted and went about their merry lives until the Immigration department ran tabs on them. They spent 4 days studying each other in order to pass the test to be given them in separate rooms.
They began as strangers, neither one liking the other. Through the intense studying of each other; their likes, dislikes, beliefs, foods, habits, etc. They fell in love.
Isn't this what we are called to do when we are told to love our neighbor. Take the time to know them, not just a passing wave or a random, chance meeting while watering the lawn.
It is amazing the magic that happens when we take the time to seek our common grounds, to honor and respect our differences, to know some one's history.
I realize that this is just a movie, but in my life I have had many a changed perspective about a person when I have taken the time to really know them. I guess we must be motivated to really want something to give our time to someone else.
Where are you spending your time, that might tell you what you are really wanting.
©oneness of life productions 9/2010
They began as strangers, neither one liking the other. Through the intense studying of each other; their likes, dislikes, beliefs, foods, habits, etc. They fell in love.
Isn't this what we are called to do when we are told to love our neighbor. Take the time to know them, not just a passing wave or a random, chance meeting while watering the lawn.
It is amazing the magic that happens when we take the time to seek our common grounds, to honor and respect our differences, to know some one's history.
I realize that this is just a movie, but in my life I have had many a changed perspective about a person when I have taken the time to really know them. I guess we must be motivated to really want something to give our time to someone else.
Where are you spending your time, that might tell you what you are really wanting.
©oneness of life productions 9/2010
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Perspectives
Every once and awhile I receive retribution from well meaning people about an article I write or a presentation I give. Some people seem very concerned for my soul and keep me in their continuous prayers, which I appreciate. Usually they pray that I may see the light and awaken to their particular brand of truth. Most are concerned with my passion for promoting peace through understanding, education and my honoring and accepting of all people including their cultures and beliefs.
For them this is blasphemous, it is completely false teachings, there is a definite line drawn in the sand: their way or my way. In their minds, one of us have to be wrong. In my mind, we are all on the same team doing the same work, guiding people to the awareness and experience of the indwelling Christ spirit. I just have an inclusive perspective while they have a very exclusive perspective.
For them this is blasphemous, it is completely false teachings, there is a definite line drawn in the sand: their way or my way. In their minds, one of us have to be wrong. In my mind, we are all on the same team doing the same work, guiding people to the awareness and experience of the indwelling Christ spirit. I just have an inclusive perspective while they have a very exclusive perspective.
I seem to have an expanded version of the same mission.
Expand your mind, expand your life experience, expand your Christ Consciousness.
Change your awareness, and you live in a different world, you experience a different reality. Lama Govinda, Creative Meditations and Multi-Dimensional Consciousness
©oneness of life productions 9/2010
Go Within and Experience Oneness
My last post was given to me in a meditation and is what I know to be true. It always amazes me when I assume I have received an original thought and then find the same thing somewhere else. Today while reading John McMurphy's book, Secrets from Great Minds, I found this quote from Plotinus from On Intellectual Beauty:
Wow, isn't that a great way to say what I said. Eventhough it is disappointing to find that the messages I receive are not unique to me, it is affirming to find other people have acquired the same wisdom by going within. It helps me to feel I am not so crazy. It is also humbling to know that when we practice meditation all that is required for life: all wisdom, all strength, and all inspiration is at hand.
©oneness of life productions 9/2010
We must bring the vision within and no longer see in the mode of separation. We need no longer look outside for our vision of the divine being; it is but the strength to see divinity within.
Wow, isn't that a great way to say what I said. Eventhough it is disappointing to find that the messages I receive are not unique to me, it is affirming to find other people have acquired the same wisdom by going within. It helps me to feel I am not so crazy. It is also humbling to know that when we practice meditation all that is required for life: all wisdom, all strength, and all inspiration is at hand.
©oneness of life productions 9/2010
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
What is blocking people from your love?
The other day while contemplating life, the joys, pains and sufferings I asked what is blocking people from the peace that surpasses understanding and the joy that is promised in the sacred texts. This is what was revealed.
Becky, my people live in sin, they have forgotten who they are. Their sin is their belief that they are separate from me, the Creator of All. They have accepted their earthly existence as their only truth or their fate. They have chosen the life of laborers and suffering servants who struggle to eat and feed their families and themselves, who have settled for a life of striving toward earthly goals. They have forgotten that I am their source, their supplier of all that is required, their employer.
The Essence of who they are is Me, the great I AM. I AM THE LIGHT, LIFE, TRUTH, LOVE, AND ALL THAT IS GOOD and THAT IS LIFE-GIVING.
This they must remember in order to thrive. Without this knowing, their life will be one of struggle, of surviving not thriving.
Becky, understand that you all still live in the garden. It is your belief and your conditioning that tells your otherwise.
Jesus came to show you the way-show you that you and I are ONE. All that I have, I give to you. You are the channels through which all my blessings come. I work through those of you whom are willing to allow my Essence to flow through you. I am what animates your life. All of the resources of the universe-creation, power, infinite possibilities waits manifestation through you.
Release the nay sayers which surround you, release your own disbelief in the power dwelling within you. Jesus did this when he said, "Get behind me Satan!" to those blocking his ultimate journey. Release all thoughts and beliefs of powerlessness, unworthiness, that you are less than perfect and wonderful. Release all that says that you are not whole and complete.
Know that I have created you in perfection, capable of creating, manifesting your hearts desire. I plant the seeds of peace, joy, happiness and abundance in your heart, why would I not create you with all you required to move toward and enjoy all of these attributes. The only thing stopping you is your earthly beliefs, those things outside yourself.
All I have is yours my precious children. It is my great pleasure to give you the kingdom.
All that I am so too are you. Own this truth and return to the garden and live as One with Me. I will provide all that is required for your life. It is your choice. I await and honor your decision.
Eternal love,
Your Creator
Becky, my people live in sin, they have forgotten who they are. Their sin is their belief that they are separate from me, the Creator of All. They have accepted their earthly existence as their only truth or their fate. They have chosen the life of laborers and suffering servants who struggle to eat and feed their families and themselves, who have settled for a life of striving toward earthly goals. They have forgotten that I am their source, their supplier of all that is required, their employer.
The Essence of who they are is Me, the great I AM. I AM THE LIGHT, LIFE, TRUTH, LOVE, AND ALL THAT IS GOOD and THAT IS LIFE-GIVING.
This they must remember in order to thrive. Without this knowing, their life will be one of struggle, of surviving not thriving.
Becky, understand that you all still live in the garden. It is your belief and your conditioning that tells your otherwise.
Jesus came to show you the way-show you that you and I are ONE. All that I have, I give to you. You are the channels through which all my blessings come. I work through those of you whom are willing to allow my Essence to flow through you. I am what animates your life. All of the resources of the universe-creation, power, infinite possibilities waits manifestation through you.
Release the nay sayers which surround you, release your own disbelief in the power dwelling within you. Jesus did this when he said, "Get behind me Satan!" to those blocking his ultimate journey. Release all thoughts and beliefs of powerlessness, unworthiness, that you are less than perfect and wonderful. Release all that says that you are not whole and complete.
Know that I have created you in perfection, capable of creating, manifesting your hearts desire. I plant the seeds of peace, joy, happiness and abundance in your heart, why would I not create you with all you required to move toward and enjoy all of these attributes. The only thing stopping you is your earthly beliefs, those things outside yourself.
All I have is yours my precious children. It is my great pleasure to give you the kingdom.
All that I am so too are you. Own this truth and return to the garden and live as One with Me. I will provide all that is required for your life. It is your choice. I await and honor your decision.
Eternal love,
Your Creator
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